aypal wraps up summer program! too many highlights!

Every summer AYPAL completes a 4-5 week training program with new and returning interns! Training includes workshops on our core political (Capitalism, Imperialism, White Supremacy, Patriarchy, Heterosexism etc.) and skills (Facilitation, Outreach, Inclusion, Public Speaking, Healing etc.) curriculum! We put all of this into practice during the program as well, check out some highlights below!

AYPAL interns and staff with organizers from UNITE HERE / Local 2850!

AYPAL representing at a rally supporting Proposition 55 to maintain and increase funding for public education on August 5th!

AYPAL youth speak out against a new development in Chinatown that is going to take up an entire city block with 6 stories of market rate housing across kitty corner from Lincoln park, in favor or more time to reach a comprehensive Community Benefits Agreements with the developers for our constituents and the people who have been in Oakland and Oakland Chinatown for years. August 17th.

For footage of what they said, check out the video below:

We did not win more time to negotiate a Community Benefits Agreement, but will be issuing an appeal of the project along with the Chinatown Coalition to try and make the changes that need to happen for this project to limit the potentially negative impacts on our community. Student and community voice at these decision making meeting is more important than ever, we will continue to have our voices heard, louder and louder each time.

We closed out our summer program with a rally for workers who are being treated unfairly at the Casino San Pablo on August 18th!

AYPAL stands in solidarity with all oppressed and resilient people everywhere, and especially right here in Oakland and Bay Area. Youth voice is not needed just because it is the right thing to hear what youth have to say, that yes, but also because there is a social utility to having youth perspective represented. Youth have a perspective that adults do not have, that is often more clear, less socialized, and more creative that what is generally being brought to the table. AYPAL is excited about continuing to bring this perspective, action, and power towards community transformation this year. Stay tuned!